Dubai hosts the largest tunnelling gathering in the region

06.03.2017.

Dubai, UAE – 21st
February 2017: Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Matkoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, the 4th Arabian Tunnelling Conference and Exhibition kicks off today at Ritz Carlton DIFC, Dubai. Organised by the Society of Engineers UAE in collaboration with the Gulf Engineering Forum under the theme “Advancing Underground Space”, the conference will address the developments, discuss ongoing projects and innovations in the tunnelling and underground space industry.

The opening ceremony was inaugurated by Eng. Dawoud Al Hajri, the President of the Society of Engineers and well attended by Honorary VIP guests including H.E. Jan Thesleff, Ambassador of Sweden to the UAE, Eng. Ahmed Jassim Al Jolo of Qatar Society of Engineers, Saad Soud Almehelby of Kuwait Society of Engineers, Mr. Masoud Ebrahim A-Hermi of Bahrain Society of Engineers, Dr. Jameel Bagawi of Saudi Council of Engineers and Eng. Khamis Al-Souli of Oman Society of Engineers; delegates from government and private sectors, presidents of international engineering associations, representatives from major engineering and tunnelling companies, as well as key stakeholders in tunnelling industry. Eng. Al Hajri cited on this occasion: “This huge event is a valuable opportunity to recognize the experiences and expertise from all over the world in managing the projects of tunnels. This will become a platform to build relations with decision makers from local and Gulf government departments, as well as reflecting a bright picture of what UAE has achieved in the engineering field and particularly the field of tunnelling. All this has been possible with the support and the directions of the wise leadership of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates and his brother His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Dubai Ruler. He further commented “On the gulf level, it is our pleasure, that Society of Engineers organizes the annual tunnelling event in conjunction with, the 20thedition of the Gulf Engineering Forum. The combined platform will enhance cooperation and exchange of expertise and experiences on common engineering issues between the Gulf Cooperation Council and ultimately support the Gulf engineering sector in all its fields.Mr. Olivier Vion, the Executive Director of International Tunnelling and Underground Space Association (ITA) also gave his opening remarks and said that “this conference will be the opportunity for everyone to know more about GCC Tunnelling and underground space use projects which are numerous here in UAE but of course also in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Oman. International experts are also present to share their experience and provide attendees the latest innovations and know-how for better, safer, cost effective projects.”

Eng. Kamal Abdullah Al-Hamad, the Secretary General of the Gulf Engineering Union also commented on this occasion: “We have reached Gulf Engineering Union’s twentieth year, we have to take steady and confident steps towards a promising future for us and for our nations. Therein clearly lies the challenge, with globalization and major alliances and world trade agreements, which opened for us new opportunities as we opened the door to new challenges. It’s important for Gulf engineers to compete scientifically and achieve professional qualifications, and through their strong belief in their abilities to not only tender and compete but even excel.”The conference enjoys continued support from the industry experts, committee, regional and international associations, academic partners which have played a key role in the development of the scientific programme and bringing in attendees from different regions. Representative from Gulf Rock, the Main Sponsor said that “the rapid increase in global urbanization, transportation and energy production has led to a high demand in advancing the construction of underground space.” At ATC 2017, the challenges will be addressed and construction techniques will also be discussed during the two-day conference. The “Arabian Tunneling Conference is a great platform for the development of tunnel industry by providing opportunity to tunnels stakeholders to explain long term advantages of underground infrastructure for convincing clients and public to the tunnels construction.” Mr. Bahram Karimi of General Mechanic Co., Main Sponsor added. The UTT Mapei is also participating this year as Platinum Sponsor.

The notable contribution of individuals and organization in the field of tunnelling and underground space industry in the GCC and Middle East countries was also recognized during the third Arabian Tunneling Awards.

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About Society of Engineers-UAESociety of Engineers-UAE was formally organized on April 03, 1979 by the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs - Ministerial Decree No. 33 1979 to facilitate the increasing demands in professional expertise and accreditation of the engineers in the UAE. The society is a semi- government and a non-profit organization who strives to provide great services to its 35,000 members and promote excellence in engineering.

Society of Engineers-UAE celebrates over 35 years of exceptional service to the public. We have accomplished outstanding achievements in accrediting the engineering certifications, regulating professional practices, standards and specifications and developing the skills and qualifications of all engineers in the UAE by our International accreditation committee.Society of Engineers-UAE joined the Arab Engineers Federation in 1984, the World Federation Engineering Organization in 1985, and the Gulf Engineering Union in 1986.www.soeuae.ae